Liverpool FC enters the 2025 summer transfer window with high ambitions under manager Arne Slot, who has already steered the club to Premier League glory in his debut season. Fresh off a title-winning campaign, the Reds are keen to bolster their squad for sustained dominance in domestic and European competitions. Recent reports indicate advanced talks with Crystal Palace for defender Marc Guehi and a potential blockbuster move for Newcastle United’s striker Alexander Isak. If these agreements materialize, Liverpool’s lineup for the 2025/26 season could undergo significant enhancements, blending defensive solidity with lethal attacking prowess. This article explores a hypothetical starting XI, tactical implications, and how these signings could elevate the team.

First, let’s profile the targets. Marc Guehi, the 25-year-old England international, has been a standout at Crystal Palace, captaining the side and earning plaudits for his composure on the ball and aerial dominance. In the 2024/25 Premier League season, Guehi featured in 34 matches, scoring 3 goals while boasting a tackle success rate of 65.88% and averaging 5.26 interceptions per game—placing him in the top percentiles among defenders. His progressive passing and ability to read the game make him an ideal modern center-back. Liverpool’s interest stems from Virgil van Dijk’s contract situation and the need for depth alongside Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez. Guehi’s expiring contract at Palace could facilitate a bargain deal, with talks already underway.

Alexander Isak, the 25-year-old Swedish forward, represents a different profile: a clinical finisher with blistering pace and technical finesse. At Newcastle, he netted 23 goals and provided 6 assists in 34 appearances during the 2024/25 season, underscoring his elite status. Isak’s versatility allows him to operate as a central striker or drift wide, fitting seamlessly into dynamic attacks. Liverpool’s forward line, featuring Darwin Nunez, Cody Gakpo, and Diogo Jota, has been potent but inconsistent in finishing. Isak could provide the reliability needed, especially with Mohamed Salah’s future uncertain beyond 2025. Rumors suggest Liverpool are preparing a new bid, despite Newcastle’s reluctance.

Assuming both signings are completed, Liverpool’s squad for 2025/26 would build on the current roster, which includes recent additions like Giorgi Mamardashvili in goal, Milos Kerkez at left-back, Florian Wirtz in midfield, Jeremie Frimpong at right-back, and Hugo Ekitike up front. Slot’s tactical evolution from Jurgen Klopp’s high-octane 4-3-3 to a more controlled 4-2-3-1 emphasizes possession, central overloads, and structured pressing. This setup allows for a double pivot in midfield, freeing attacking midfielders to link with forwards.

A projected starting lineup in 4-2-3-1 could look like this:

Goalkeeper: Alisson Becker – The Brazilian remains the undisputed No. 1, with Mamardashvili as backup.
Right-back: Jeremie Frimpong – His marauding runs add width, complementing Trent Alexander-Arnold’s playmaking from deeper roles.
Center-backs: Virgil van Dijk and Marc Guehi – Van Dijk’s leadership pairs with Guehi’s agility, forming a robust partnership. Konate provides rotation.
Left-back: Milos Kerkez – The young Hungarian offers energy, allowing Andy Robertson to manage his workload.
Defensive Midfielders: Alexis Mac Allister and Wataru Endo – Mac Allister’s vision and Endo’s tenacity provide balance, with Ryan Gravenberch as an alternative.
Attacking Midfielder: Florian Wirtz – The German starlet’s creativity thrives in the No. 10 role, linking midfield to attack.
Right Winger: Mohamed Salah – Assuming he extends, Salah’s goals remain crucial.
Left Winger: Luis Diaz – His dribbling and work rate fit Slot’s pressing demands, with Federico Chiesa as competition.
Striker: Alexander Isak – Centrally, Isak’s movement exploits spaces, supported by Ekitike or Nunez off the bench.

This formation leverages Guehi’s ball-playing to initiate attacks from the back, reducing reliance on Van Dijk alone. In possession, the double pivot allows Wirtz to push forward, creating a 4-2-4 shape that overwhelms opponents centrally. Isak’s ability to drop deep or run in behind adds fluidity, potentially increasing Liverpool’s expected goals (xG) output. Defensively, Guehi’s interceptions bolster the high line, addressing vulnerabilities exposed in recent seasons.

Tactically, Slot’s emphasis on tempo control would shine with these additions. Guehi’s 82% pass accuracy and progressive carries enable quick transitions, while Isak’s 75 shots on goal from last season translate to more clinical finishing. In Europe, this lineup could dominate possession against top sides, with substitutes like Curtis Jones, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Cody Gakpo providing depth for rotations.

However, challenges remain. Integrating Guehi might require time if Van Dijk departs, and Isak’s £100m+ fee could strain finances amid FFP rules. Yet, the upside is immense: a blend of youth and experience poised for another title charge.

In conclusion, securing Isak and Guehi would signal Liverpool’s intent to build a dynasty under Slot. This hypothetical 2025/26 lineup promises tactical sophistication and star power, potentially ushering in a new era at Anfield. As negotiations progress, fans eagerly await what could be transformative deals.